Paul Rudd in talks for ‘Ant-Man’ role, say reports

Reports say actor has edged ahead of Joseph Gordon-Levitt in studio's pecking order

Marvel

Paul Rudd is in talks with Marvel about taking on the lead role in the forthcoming Ant-Man adaptation, according to reports.

The Wrap claims that Rudd has been involved in early negotiations with the studio about playing Hank Pym in Edgar Wright’s big-screen treatment of the comic book, and is now favourite to land the role ahead of early front-runner Joseph Gordon-Levitt.

The character of Ant-Man made his Marvel comic book debut in 1962 but has never appeared on screen before. In the books he is the superhero alter ego of Dr Hank Pym, a scientist who invents a shrinking serum that makes him insect size. Once miniature, he is able to solve mysteries and take out bad guys.

Speaking previously about his plans for the film, Wright said he was eager to bring his own sensibilities and idiosyncrasies to the Hollywood project. “I think there will be some elements of my previous movies in there, and I think that’s why Marvel wanted me to do it in the first place,” he stated. “I don’t think they hired me to do something completely anonymous. So it’s fun – it’s got lots of new elements. I’m excited about it.”

As well as directing, Wright co-wrote the film’s script with Joe Cornish, also his collaborator on the screenplay for The Adventures Of Tintin. Ant-Man has been scheduled to open in US cinemas on July 31, 2015 – just two weeks after the Batman v Superman movie – but its UK release date has yet to be confirmed.

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